Visiting Yachties Important to Fiji
Nautical tourism can be a thriving part of Fiji's economy, generating many benefits for all, says Fiji Yachting Association president Tony Philp. 
'Sailing in Fiji'
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Mr Philp said yacht owners stayed longer than other tourists spending months and even a year.
'They are better off financially than an average visitor and have the highest expenditure of any category of tourist. Many are professional and business people,' he said.
Mr Philp said 65 of these luxurious yachts costing at least $2million visited Fiji last year.
'The owners are among the top 2 per cent of the world's wealthiest people,' he said.
'The presence of their yachts in Fiji with an average stay of three months also adds to the image of the high-end segment of Fiji tourism,' he said.
The visiting period for yachts was reduced from 12 to three months without incurring a 43 per cent import duty and Value Added Tax in the 2008 Budget.
Mr Philp said tourism representatives complained to the Finance Ministry and Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority, saying a large numbers of yachts would instead visit competing destinations. Government then increased the visiting period to nine months but with the condition that yachts could not then return for another nine months.
Mr Philp said they were awaiting Government's decision on their concerns.
'We can take this branch of tourism much further if the industry and the Government work together. Fiji is already a recognised destination for yachts. It has great South Seas location with international appeal, and good amenities. But what we have achieved so far is only the tip of the sail,' he said.
Mr Philp said the Fiji Yachting Association and the Fiji Islands Hotel and Tourism Association were targeting to lure 1000 yachts from New Zealand, Australia, the United States and Europe.
He said this would be an increase from the present estimate of 500.
'The industry is now ready to take off, if all stakeholders can effectively co-operate to capitalise on the tremendous natural assets that Fiji possesses. For this to happen, we would need the strong support of the Government,' he said.
by Fiji Times 
Stockton, NSW
